Thune Edges Out Cornyn to Become Next Senate GOP Leader, 29-24

Sen. John Thune will be the next Senate majority leader, elevating Mitch McConnell’s top deputy to one of the most powerful positions in Washington.

Thune (R-S.D.) prevailed 29-24 over Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) in a secret-ballot vote of Senate Republicans on Wednesday, according to three sources familiar with the private meeting.

The third candidate, Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.), also ran but failed to make the second ballot. A majority was required.

Thune, the current whip, will take over the job in January. McConnell announced earlier this year he wouldn’t seek another two-year term in the role.